You’ve watched it on TV during the winter Olympics, now try it with your friends, family, or co-workers. The members of the Wausau Curling Club look forward to showing you a sport not known to many, at a world-class facility in the heart of central Wisconsin.
If you want to learn the basics of curling, check out our Curling 101 page.
If you, or your group, wants to get out on the ice and give it a shot, we host two different types of “Learn-to-Curl” events.
Public, Large-Group Learn-to-Curl Events
Several times during the season, our club offers learn-to-curl events to the general public. You can sign up for the event as an individual or with a group of friends. Hospitality and camaraderie are key components of the sport of curling and of our public learn-to-curl events. Upcoming event dates:
Sunday, February 19, Noon - 3pm
Saturday, February 25, Noon - 3pm
Sunday, February 26, Noon - 3pm
Register here, or contact Tucker Diedrich at 715-573-1959
Private, Small-Group Learn-to-Curl Events
We are happy to host your group for a private learn-to-curl event. These have been popular as corporate outings or team-building events. These can be scheduled during the season (November – mid-March) on weekdays, weeknights or Saturdays, pending ice availability. There really is not a limit on the number of people in your group, pending ice availability. Find more info here. If you have questions about fees and available times, please This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
What to Expect
Age
Curling is a sport that can be enjoyed by players of all ages. At the Wausau Curling Club, we have members ranging in age from 8 to 80 years old. Minors are required to have an adult sign a required waiver on their behalf before stepping on the ice.
Instruction
All participants will learn the basics of safely getting a rock from one end to the other, sweeping, and scoring. We will then play a few “ends” of curling to simulate match play.
Hospitality
Hospitality and camaraderie are hallmarks of curling, so the Wausau Club has a large hospitality area. For private events, we will discuss whether food and refreshments are part of your plans.
The Ice
Unlike hockey or skating ice, which is smooth, curling ice has a pebbled surface. This is necessary for the stone to be able to travel the length of the sheet of ice. It also makes the surface less slippery for the curler.
The Rocks (a.k.a. stones)
Each rock weighs 42 pounds, but don’t worry, we never pick them up. They slide with ease on the ice surface. If any participants have difficulty bending down, we can instruct them using a stick delivery. The stick has extended curling careers by decades, and they are regularly used in leagues and tournaments.
Clothing
The temperature inside the ice house is 40 degrees. Wear layers and comfortable, flexible pants. Bring a clean pair of athletic (rubber-soled) shoes to wear on the ice. Street shoes are not allowed on the ice.
Equipment
All necessary curling equipment will be provided by the club. If you wish, you may choose to wear a bicycle helmet while on the ice. A limited number of helmets are available at the club.
Waiver
All participants will be asked to sign a waiver prior to stepping on the ice. You can download and print the waiver here.